Contacting Elected Officials

Too often, citizens underestimate their power as constituents of their elected officials. They feel that it doesn't do any good for them to let their representatives know how they feel about important issues.

However, legislators are elected to represent the interests of their constituents. It is important that citizens communicate with their elected officials so that legislators know what issues are important to their constituents.

All congressional offices, for instance, are organized to handle correspondence from constituents. Just a small amount of interest shown by constituents on a single topic will force the elected official to pay more attention to that issue.

Sadly, only a small fraction of citizens bother to communicate with their legislators on key issues. If you are one of those people who do send a message, your views will be heard.

All communication is important -letters, calls, faxes, and emails - because it shows the elected official that constituents care about the issue. A personal letter sent through the mail remains the form of communication that legislative offices take most seriously when considering an issue, followed by personal visits and telephone calls. Correspondence in the form of fax and e-mail also rank highly, but considerably lower than personal letters and visits.

If you receive a response from your representative, please send a copy of the response to a national or state organization that is working actively on the issue. This information helps in planning inside lobbying strategy

If you believe the answer you get from your representative is not responsive, write again and ask for a clearer statement of position.

When sending an email, be sure to include your mailing address, making it clear that you are a constituent.

Most offices ignore correspondence from non-constituents. Since offices generally reply through the U.S. Postal Service, it is unlikely that you will get a response if you do not list your mailing address.

Telephone Calls

Telephoning your legislator is also a common and effective method of citizen lobbying, especially when speed is essential. While a telephone call is less likely to generate a response letter from a representative, a call coming close to a key vote shows intense constituent interest in the issue, and also highlights that the legislatorÕs actions are being closely monitored.

In most cases, you will not reach your legislator directly with your call, but you will have the chance to register your views. Often, a receptionist to the legislative aide who deals directly with the issue will relay your call. In preparation for your call, have a clear idea of the points you want to make and the specific action you want your representative to take.

Writing a Letter Email or Fax

  • Keep the message brief. Type if you can, or write neatly.
  • Write it in your own words.
  • Cover only one Issue so that your letter will be given the attention it deserves.
  • Include facts. Facts Included In your correspondence will Increase Its effectiveness. Show familiarity with the subject and with the current status of legislation - mention the bill number or the names of the sponsors.
  • Briefly explain your position, citing personal experience when appropriate. Be specific. Tell your representative what action you want him or her to take.
  • Ask for a specific position on the issue.
  • Be helpful. Offer to provide further Information on the subject.
  • Remember to say "thank you." expressions of thanks or compliments show that you are monitoring your elected official's actions in office and that you appreciate votes that support your views.